Investors and founders at the ninth Sharjah Investment Forum highlighted that capital in the UAE is transitioning from AI experimentation to revenue-generating applications. MENA AI and AI-enabled companies raised $678 million in the first half of 2026, with the UAE capturing 93% of that capital. The shift comes alongside federal initiatives aiming to transition half of UAE government services to agentic AI within two years.
Speakers at the ninth Sharjah Investment Forum stated that the UAE is positioned to become the primary crossing point for global capital flows between East and West within five years. Industry leaders attributed this trajectory to deliberate regulatory frameworks, dedicated oversight bodies like VARA, and rising investor emphasis on asset custody and trust.
The UAE Ministry of Investment and China Securities signed an MoU on October 13, 2026, to enhance bilateral investment and capital flows. The partnership supports China Securities' regional presence in the Dubai International Financial Centre and targets asset management, capital markets advisory, and institutional investor links.
The United Arab Emirates and China have signed an investment partnership memorandum of understanding to advance bilateral investment flows. The agreement explores establishing joint investment platforms, funds, and vehicles targeting investments, including in third markets.
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